Now You Can Text 911 In King County

SEATTLE, WA - A new text-to-911 service rolled out in King County this week. The service is meant for people who are unable to use a phone - like people who are deaf or in a situation where visibly making a phone call might be dangerous.

911 calls should still be made by calling, authorities advise. Text messages are treated like calls, so it's possible you might experience delays getting help.

"Call if you can, text if you can’t," police advise.

Other tips for texting 911 include: send the dispatcher your exact location, the type of emergency, and whether you need police, fire, or EMTs to respond; keep the texts brief; write clearly and with no abbreviations; and keep your phone nearby in case the dispatcher has questions.

Texting 911 is not available everywhere in Washington yet. Thurston County has it, but Pierce County does not - although county officials there hope to offer the service in 2019.

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